YOUR CDL
MUST BE OBTAINED AND MAINTAINED
IN YOUR STATE OF RESIDENCE
"Click" on your STATE OF RESIDENCE
to obtain a CDL . . .
How to obtain a Commercial Driver's License
Getting Started . . .
Getting a CDL involves several steps. There are medical requirements and residency requirements besides knowledge and skills requirements.
- The first step is to get a free copy of your state's CDL Manual - CDL Handbook. The manual is available in their field
locations, downloaded from their website and printed. Each state has
its own processes to getting the CDL.
- The second step is to decide which type of vehicle and what kind of driving you want to get the license for.
- There are 3 classes of CDLs with endorsements for specialized qualifications for vehicles like school
buses, tank trucks, tractor trailers, etc. Each types of CDL and endorsement requires you pass a skills
test and in some cases a written test. It is important to make sure you pass all the required tests
or risk having restrictions on your license. Go to CDL Classifications and Endorsement Codes for complete details.
Once you've finished getting informed and making decisions, there are two basic steps to getting a CDL:
Step 1: Get the Commercial Learners Permit (CLP)
A
Commercial Learners Permit (CLP) is a permit that only authorizes you
to practice on public roads with a qualified CDL holder sitting next to you.
Getting the permit involves more than just passing all the knowledge tests
for the type of driving you want to do. To make sure that you are eligible
your driving record is checked for the last 10 years in all 50 states and
the District of Columbia. You need to bring in the proof that your state
accepts to show that you are medically qualified. Most types of commercial
driving require a DOT medical card, requiring a DOT physical. Your state
may require specific documents it wants to see to prove your name and
proof of residency. There are fees for getting the CLP. Reading and
following the instructions in your states CDL Manual streamlines the process.
Step 2: Get the Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
You are required to possess the CLP for 14 days before taking the Skills Test.
Some states require the successful completion of CDL training prior to testing.
Regardless, it is highly recommended that you practice the inspection tests
and maneuvers in the CDL Manual that you will be tested on with a qualified
individual before showing up for the test. You must pass all 3 parts of the
Skills Test: the Vehicle Inspection Test, the Basic Controls Test, and the
Road Test. Your state may even allow you to use their "training aid" to help
you remember items on the vehicle inspection checklist. Taking the Skills
test is no guarantee that you will pass.
Once you have passed the Skills Test you need to take the documentation to the
counter for processing. Some states will give you the CDL that same day, while
others send it to you in the mail. Regardless make sure that everything is
correct before you leave the counter. It can be costly and embarrassing if
you find a mistake later.
Checklist . . .
- Possess current valid regular driver's license in your state of residence.
- Show proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, payroll check stub, W-2 Form).
- For interstate driving, submit proof of DOT Medical Certificate. For intrastate driving, complete an application which includes a statement certifying that you meet medical and driver qualifications. If you have had any change in your physical condition since your last driver license renewal which may affect your ability to drive, you may need a special form from the branch office for your physician to fill out before you can apply for your license.
- Meet driver record eligibility requirements as determined by your DMV office personnel.
- Pass the required knowledge and vision tests. You must pass all required knowledge tests to obtain a CDL Temporary Instruction Permit (TIP). This allows you to practice driving under supervision of a driver who has a CDL for the type of vehicle you wish to drive. A CDL TIP is also required for taking the CDL skills tests. If you do not pass a knowledge test on your first attempt, you must wait one day to retake the test. There is a one-day wait period for any subsequent retest.
- Pay your CDL fees.
- Schedule your CDL skills test.
- Upon successfully passing your Skills Tests, return to the DMV office.
- Receive your CDL.
Do I need a CDL?
What Class of CDL do I need?
What CDL endorsements do I need?
Are YOU ready to get YOUR CDL?
Prepare for YOUR CDL Tests NOW . . .
In addition to the CDL (commercial driver's license) information found in our website covering the CDL and in the free CDL Handbook (which is quite boring and a bit confusing - and doesn't have a single multiple-choice question in it that is asked on the actual tests), the complete online
CDL Practice Test prep program will prepare you to easily pass your
CDL written exams to get your CDL permit. The skills test modules are invaluable to give you a head start before doing your
behind the wheel work, possibly saving you a lot of money. The CDL test prep program includes the following features . . .
- Covers ALL Eight CDL written tests.
- In separate study modules - you won't need all of them - don't waste time on what you don't require.
- Covers ALL Three CDL skills tests.
- In separate study modules - you won't need all of them - don't waste time on what you don't require.
- 670 practice CDL test questions with actual answers.
- Access to CDL videos covering written and skills tests.
- CDL study guide in both text and audio - listen as you read along.
- CDL study Quick Reviews.
- Interactive online CDL Quizzes.
- and much more!
May your new CAREER be prosperous!!!
Michael Hamilton
Director
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" - M.K., Jacksonville, FL
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" - M.K., Lakeland, FL
